Hosea 4:8

Authorized King James Version

They eat up the sin of my people, and they set their heart on their iniquity.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
חַטַּ֥את
the sin
an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender
#2
עַמִּ֖י
of my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#3
יֹאכֵ֑לוּ
They eat up
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#4
וְאֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
עֲוֹנָ֖ם
on their iniquity
perversity, i.e., (moral) evil
#6
יִשְׂא֥וּ
and they set
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
#7
נַפְשֽׁוֹ׃
their heart
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hosea, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Hosea.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection